Stefan de Walle is stepping down after fifteen years as the advisor to Sinterklaas in Het Sinterklaasjournaal and during the national arrival, according to an announcement made by the NTR on Wednesday. The 61-year-old actor has portrayed the figure since 2011, when he took over the role from Bram van der Vlugt, who had served as the face of the holiday tradition on television since 1986. While the exact reason for De Walle’s departure remains unknown, the omroep praised him as one of the most trusted faces of the December period, noting that he gave his version of Sinterklaas a distinct and personal character.
Who Will Succeed Stefan de Walle in Het Sinterklaasjournaal?
Speculation surrounding De Walle’s replacement immediately triggered conflicting reports across media outlets and social platforms. Matthijs Jansen of the Instagram account SintTalk initially reported that actor and presenter Daan Schuurmans would take over the duties. However, Schuurmans quickly denied those claims in a conversation with AD.nl, calling the rumors “total nonsense” and clarifying that he was never approached for the role and that the job does not fit his schedule. Adding to the public interest, Bracha van Doesburgh, the wife of Schuurmans, shared an Instagram post shortly after the news broke that some followers interpreted as a confirmation, though the NTR declined to comment on the actor’s identity at the time.
Tina Nijkamp Puts Forward Alternative Successors
Following the denial by Schuurmans, former SBS6 program director Tina Nijkamp offered different names regarding who will wear the mitre next. Nijkamp claimed on Instagram that Kasper van Kooten would take over the role, describing him as the new Sinterklaas. However, Jochem Myjer subsequently informed Nijkamp that the claim regarding Van Kooten was incorrect, prompting Nijkamp to drop yet another potential candidate, Mark van Eeuwen. Whether any of these names will ultimately appear on screen remains unconfirmed by the official broadcaster.
Did you know? Stefan de Walle’s tenure is marked by iconic catchphrases such as “hallootjes” and “dag hoor,” which became staples for thousands of children along harbor quays and millions of viewers watching from home.
When Does the Next Season of Het Sinterklaasjournaal Air?
The identity of the new advisor to the Saint will be revealed soon, as the incoming actor assumes a major role in the upcoming season of Het Sinterklaasjournaal. According to the broadcast schedule, the new season begins on Monday, November 9, 2026, and will air daily around 18:00 via the NTR on NPO Zapp and NPO 3. Furthermore, the newly appointed actor will make a public appearance on Saturday, November 14, 2026, during the official national arrival in Grave. The NTR has not yet clarified whether an official unmasking will occur prior to the broadcast or if the debut of Het Sinterklaasjournaal will serve as the definitive reveal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Stefan de Walle stop playing the Sinterklaas advisor?
A concrete reason for his departure has not been made public, though De Walle stated in a farewell message that he leaves with gratitude and pain in his heart after fifteen years in the role.
Who did Stefan de Walle succeed in 2011?
Stefan de Walle took over the role in 2011 from Bram van der Vlugt, who had portrayed Sinterklaas on television since 1986.
Has the NTR officially confirmed the new actor?
No, the NTR has left the identity of the successor in the middle, while denials and alternative names circulate across media channels.
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